Chikungunya fever, a viral illness transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is currently making headlines in Foshan City in south China's Guangdong Province with over 4,000 confirmed cases as of July 24. The infection, known for causing fever, skin rashes, and severe joint pain that can leave people literally 'bent over,' has become the most significant outbreak in recent years. 😷
Liu Qiyong, the chief expert in Vector-Borne Disease Control at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, explains that global transmission trends and favorable local conditions have played a major role in this surge. Imported cases have found a ready host among locally abundant Aedes mosquitoes, sparking sustained small-scale outbreaks across affected regions.
The typical symptoms of chikungunya fever, such as joint pain, generally emerge within one to two days after exposure. While many recover in a few weeks, a small percentage experience prolonged joint pain lasting six months or even longer.
Here are some simple tips to protect yourself:
- Use repellents that have both a registered pesticide number and a valid production license to ensure they work effectively.
- Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing when outdoors to minimize skin exposure.
- Avoid going out during peak mosquito hours, typically early morning (7-9 a.m.) and late afternoon (5-7 p.m.).
- Eliminate stagnant water around your home where mosquitoes may breed.
Since there is no specific treatment or vaccine for chikungunya fever, preventing mosquito bites remains critical. Vulnerable groups such as newborns, residents over 65, and those with chronic conditions should be especially cautious and seek prompt medical attention if they develop symptoms.
Travelers visiting Foshan or other outbreak regions in Southeast Asia, Africa, or South America should check local health advisories, take strict mosquito precautions before departure, and monitor their health for 14 days upon return. Stay informed, follow public health advice, and protect yourself from this viral challenge!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
